The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-visit destination for those seeking to uncover the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Peru. This full-day tour from Cusco promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through a carefully curated itinerary that highlights the region’s most significant archaeological sites and natural wonders. With the expertise of a professional bilingual guide, travelers can expect to be captivated by the stories and insights that bring this ancient land to life. From the vibrant textiles of Chinchero to the enigmatic salt mines of Maras, each stop along the way offers a unique glimpse into the enduring legacy of the Inca Empire.

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Key Points

A full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, covering key sites like Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq.
Tour duration is 12 hours, with flexible start times of 6:30 AM or 7:30 AM, and return to Cusco by 6:30 PM.
Tour price starts from $25 per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional bilingual guide, and entrance fees.
Highlights include exploring Inca ruins, discovering Moray’s unique circular terraces, and witnessing the Maras salt mines.
Important information includes the need to bring a passport/ID, wear comfortable clothing, and purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket for many attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This comprehensive full-day tour allows visitors to explore the captivating Sacred Valley of the Incas.

The tour runs for 12 hours, with start times of 6:30 AM or 7:30 AM. Priced from $25 per person, it provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional bilingual guide, and entrance fees to the key sites.

Travelers can visit the Inca ruins of Chinchero, the unique terraces of Moray, the historic Maras salt mines, the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, and the stunning agricultural terraces of Pisaq.

The tour returns to Cusco by 6:30 PM, offering a full day of Inca history and natural wonders.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Inca site of Chinchero, where visitors can explore the Palace of Inca Tupac Yupanqui and witness a local knitting demonstration.

Next, they’ll discover Moray’s circular terraces, which showcase temperature differences of up to 15°C (27°F).

The tour then moves on to the Maras salt mines, featuring around 3,000 small wells that have been used since Incan times.

Ollantaytambo fortress and its impressive Inca architecture await, before the group enjoys stunning views of agricultural terraces in Pisaq.

Finally, they’ll return to Cusco by 6:30 PM.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Cusco, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

The package also provides:

A professional bilingual guide, entrance fees to key sites, and an optional lunch – all for a seamless Sacred Valley experience.

A professional bilingual guide fluent in English and Spanish to lead the way.
Entrance fees to key sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisaq, Chinchero, and Moray.
An optional lunch addition during booking for convenience.
The Cusco Tourist Ticket, required for many attractions (excluding Machu Picchu).

With all logistics covered, travelers can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, as well as wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the tour.

The itinerary may change based on the selected schedule, with more sites visited potentially reducing free time.

Hotel pickup is limited to the historic center, but an alternative meeting point will be provided.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is mandatory for many attractions, but it’s not valid for Machu Picchu.

While the tour includes entrance fees to several sites, the Maras salt mines fee is available for purchase during booking.

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Customer Reviews

Nineteen reviews of the Full Day Tour to Sacred Valley of the Incas have awarded it an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Travelers praised the tour’s excellent guides, who received a 4.5/5 rating. The transportation also earned high marks at 4.8/5.

Tour guides received excellent ratings of 4.5/5, and transportation was highly praised at 4.8/5 by travelers.

While the value for money was rated 4.4/5, many noted the tour offered great value.

Key highlights included:

Knowledgeable, friendly guides
Well-organized, smooth logistics
Fascinating historical sites and activities
Stunning views and cultural experiences

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Exploring Chinchero

On the first stop of the tour, visitors explore the Inca site of Chinchero. They wander through the Palace of Inca Tupac Yupanqui, marveling at the well-preserved Inca architecture.

Next, they witness a live demonstration of traditional Andean weaving techniques, learning about the intricate processes and vibrant natural dyes used. The guide shares insights into the cultural significance of these textiles, which have been passed down for generations.

Amidst the ruins and scenic vistas, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and artistry of the Inca civilization that once thrived in this sacred valley.

Discovering Moray’s Circular Terraces

Next, the tour group marvels at the unique circular terraces of Moray.

These Inca ruins feature a series of concentric agricultural terraces, each one slightly lower in elevation than the last. This intricate design is thought to have been used as an agricultural laboratory, with the varying temperatures at each level allowing the Incas to experiment with growing different crops.

The tour participants explore the terraces, noting:

Temperature differences of up to 15°C (27°F) between the top and bottom levels.
Ingenious water management systems that channeled water through the complex.
Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The well-preserved nature of the site, a testament to Inca engineering prowess.

Visiting Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the fascinating Moray terraces, the tour group then heads to the historic Maras salt mines.

They’ll witness around 3,000 small wells that have been used since Inca times. These saltwater pools are filled by a local spring, and the water evaporates in the sun, leaving behind salt deposits.

Guests are often amazed by the contrast of the bright white salt against the rugged Andean landscape. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about this ancient salt-harvesting tradition that’s still in use today.

The group can even purchase some of the pure Maras salt as a souvenir.

Things To Know

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Lunch?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary requirements for the included lunch. Customers can likely request special meals like vegetarian or gluten-free options when booking, though it’s best to inquire with the tour operator beforehand.

Can Children Under 12 Participate in This Tour?

Children under 12 can participate in the tour. The tour is family-friendly, and kids are welcome to join. However, parents should ensure their children can handle the full-day itinerary comfortably.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour isn’t specified, but it’s likely a small group experience to provide a more personalized and intimate tour. Most similar day tours in the Sacred Valley accommodate around 10-15 participants.

Can We Stop for Photos During the Drive Between Sites?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops during the drive between sites. The guides understand guests’ desire to capture the scenic landscapes and are happy to accommodate brief photo opportunities along the way to make the most of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, there’s typically an option to extend the tour and visit additional sites in the Sacred Valley. Travelers can discuss this with the tour operator and customize the itinerary, though it may come at an extra cost and require more time.

Sum Up

This full-day tour through the Sacred Valley offers a unique opportunity to take in the captivating history and stunning landscapes of the Inca Empire. From the vibrant cultural hub of Chinchero to the mesmerizing Moray terraces and the iconic Maras salt mines, each stop on the itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can expect an exceptional value and memories that will last a lifetime.